Understanding Your Curly Hair (type 3)Updated 3 days ago

Type 3 hair forms defined loops and spiral-shaped curl patterns. Curls create natural volume and movement, but require more moisture than straight or wavy hair because natural oils have a more difficult path traveling down the hair shaft.

Structure: Elliptical or oval-shaped follicle, asymmetrical keratin distribution, curved fiber architecture

Biology: An elliptical follicle causes the hair fiber to grow in a curved shape. As curls form, natural scalp oils encounter more resistance traveling from root to tip, leaving the ends more vulnerable to dryness. The twists and bends in the fiber also create points where moisture can escape more easily.  Keratin proteins are distributed asymmetrically within the hair shaft, creating areas of tension that force the hair to curl as it grows.

Hair Behavior:

• Loses moisture faster than straight or wavy hair
• More prone to frizz when the cuticle becomes lifted
• Can experience uneven curl definition depending on hydration levels
• Benefits from moisture-rich routines that support curl formation and reduce moisture loss